What is a Bible College or
Biblical University?

The biblical university is a very distinctive educational model. It is not simply more than a Bible college or less than a Christian liberal arts university. Students receive a genuine university level education that is intentionally biblical. They take up a serious study of Bible and theology along side their general and professional studies. They earn degrees in various professional areas, participate in full fledged athletic, musical, and other co-curricular activities, enjoy a vibrant campus life, and prepare for life, vocation, and further study in a context that is shaped by a clearly biblically centered mission and vision. The student is challenged to think biblically about God, themselves, and the world in which they live. In addition, by virtue of the nature of the Christian faith and the teaching of the Bible, students are expected to develop godly character and commit their lives to service in the church, society, and the world.

Today, high school students often find themselves in the difficult position of making higher education decisions based on pragmatic factors such as cost, location, financial aid packaging, or program offerings. But perhaps the most important factor to consider is mission fit. Does the college or university being considered possess a mission and distinctive characteristics that match the student's perspective, expectations, and potential? One option for students seriously considering a distinctive approach to higher education is the Bible college or biblical university.

Traditionally, Bible colleges require students to primarily study Bible and theology. Bible colleges originally provided only ministry training for laypersons or vocational ministers. But modern Bible colleges offer far more than most people realize. Of course not all Bible colleges are the same. Some Bible colleges are not regionally accredited and offer a limited scope of academic opportunities. However, there are some standout schools that would be a great fit and provide a superb education for many students. These schools deliver excellent general education and degrees in addition to the Bible degree such as bachelor's degrees in education, social work, music, and business administration. Some schools like Philadelphia Biblical University have distinguished themselves from Bible colleges by becoming universities. This status communicates a strategic embracing of rigorous study in all academic disciplines from a perspective informed by biblical teaching. The Bible is still central but there is no hesitancy about broader intellectual pursuits. Students committed to the Christian faith can now approach their higher education decisions knowing that choosing a Christian education does not mean sacrificing academic quality.

In the end, the question is not, "Why choose a biblical education?" For the student who holds to the Christian faith and is looking for a distinctive approach to higher education, the question is, "Why choose less?"

Editorial provided by Todd J. Williams, PhD, Senior Vice President and Provost, Philadelphia Biblical University.